This Smart Underwear from Vanderbilt University Can Prevent Back Injury

Lower back pain is a challenge 60-80% of adults will face in their lifetime, prompting Vanderbilt University to design a pair of mechanized smart underwear that aims to prevent back injuries.

The concept behind this underwear was inspired by the super suits worn by comic book heroes. Like these suits, this hidden undergarment serves a purpose that extends past what's traditionally expected of clothing. The smart clothing uses elastic bands to absorb pressure caused by specific movements, successfully relieving some of that pressure from the wearer's back, preventing injury. The clothing is light, comfortable and affordable, fitting into the wearer's usual style, while subtly, yet unobtrusively preventing pain.

This smart underwear serves as an example of the potential for collaboration between the tech and fashion injury, using mechanics to make life easier.